Senior Director of Advancement Communications

Requisition Number: 2026S062 | Full‑Time position in the Office of University Communications.

About the role

The senior director of advancement communications serves as the strategic communications partner to Colgate’s advancement office. Reporting to the associate vice president for communications, the role works closely with colleagues across university communications and the advancement division.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute integrated communications strategies and plans that inspire philanthropic engagement and advance the goals of Colgate’s Third‑Century Plan within the Campaign for the Third Century.
• Identify and elevate narratives that resonate with alumni, parents, donors, and friends, establishing editorial direction and advising on messaging and audience engagement.
• Provide editorial leadership—including creative development, execution, and continuous improvement—for advancement publications and other university communications supporting the Third‑Century Plan.
• Ensure advancement communications across print, digital, web, and emerging platforms are compelling, high‑quality, audience‑centered, on‑brand, and aligned with institutional priorities.
• Play a hands‑on role in creating and editing communications, serving as an exceptional storyteller, editor, and communications strategist.
• Supervise the advancement communications manager, offering leadership, coaching, and performance management while fostering a collaborative, high‑performing communications function.

Requirements

• Minimum of eight years of progressively responsible experience in advancement communications for higher education, alumni relations, or other nonprofit sectors.
• Proven success developing and executing integrated communications strategies that support organizational priorities and advance advancement goals.
• Experience serving as a strategic communications adviser and partner to senior leaders, building strong collaborative relationships across an organization.
• Exceptional writing, editing, storytelling, and project‑management skills; ability to translate complex ideas into compelling, audience‑centered communications across digital channels, print, media, and events.
• Strong editorial judgment, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple high‑priority projects in a fast‑paced environment.
• Knowledge of digital analytics strategy, audience segmentation, performance measurement, data‑informed decision‑making, content management systems, and communications best practices.
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, English, liberal arts, or a related field (required). Advanced degree or equivalent combination of education and experience (preferred).

Preferred qualifications

• Experience executing communications strategies for a comprehensive fundraising campaign or other major philanthropic initiative.
• Experience supervising, coaching, and developing staff.
• Familiarity with Drupal or a comparable content management system.

Other information

Work visa sponsorship is not available for this position. The position is full‑time.